2026 San Diego Mini Sessions

ONLY 6 SPOTS PER LOCATION

October 3 – 25, 2026

San Diego Mini Sessions

Balboa Park- 10/3

Eucalyptus Forest- 10/03

Sunset Cliffs - 10/4

Coronado-10/10

Presidio Park - 10/11

Scripps Pier- 10/17

Studio- 10/24

Bonita- 10/24

Alpine- 10/25

BOOKINGS CLOSE ON SEPTMEBER 25TH!

VOTED

SAN DIEGO'S BEST

90 ★

FIVE-STAR GOOGLE REVIEWS

10 YRS+

Of Finding Everyone's Good Side

$375

Quick, fun, and full of heart—mini sessions for 2026 are here and spots are limited, so don't take too long to book yours!

Details:

20 Minutes
5 Digital images
Pets are welcome
Immediate family only
What to wear guide

Add-ons:

Personalized outfit guidance with access to the client closet +$100
Additional family members $25 per person
Access to a hair & makeup rate from the best HMUA in San Diego
Additional images start at $75 and the full gallery is offered at a deep discount

With only 6 spots per location and bookings closing soon, don't wait. Book your spot now before it's gone!

FAQ about Minis

EUCALYPTUS FOREST MINI SESSIONS

NEW LOCATION ALERT! Perfect for morning people! Gorgeous, dreamy light through tall trees and golden leaves, an unforgettable backdrop. Easy access and easy parking too.

BOOK YOUR EUCALYPTUS MINI SESSION

BALBOA PARK MINI SESSIONS

With its iconic architecture, Balboa Park is one of my all-time favorite backdrops, timeless, elegant, and dripping in dreamy light. Dress up for this location is encouraged.

BOOK YOUR BALBOA MINI SESSION

WHY CLIENTS CAN'T GET ENOUGH OF MELISSA!

Don't wait for the perfect time.

SUNSET CLIFFS MINI SESSIONS

Sunset Cliffs is new for 2026 and already one of my most popular spots, golden light, dramatic ocean views, and that effortless San Diego coastline magic. Just note it's not super accessible, so keep little ones close (cliffs are pretty, not childproof).

BOOK YOUR SUNSET CLIFFS MINI SESSION

CORONADO MINI SESSIONS

A location I come back to year after year. There's no way you can go wrong here, the sun peeking through the dunes bathes everyone in golden light. Families with little kids especially love how much space there is to run around and play!

BOOK YOUR CORONADO MINI SESSION

PRESIDIO MINI SESSIONS

Presidio Park shines with soft, glowing light that flatters every skin tone. The Junipero Serra Museum's white walls act as a natural reflector, giving everyone a beautiful, creamy glow. Its steps are perfect for cuddling up with the kids beneath sunset-lit trees.

BOOK YOUR PRESIDIO MINI SESSION

SCRIPPS PIER MINI SESSIONS

This one sold out twice last year, so don't delay! With the iconic pier stretching into the ocean, this location offers a dramatic, picture-perfect backdrop and glowing sunset light for dreamy coastal portraits. Book now before it's gone!

BOOK YOUR SCRIPPS PIER MINI SESSION

STUDIO MINI SESSIONS

An editorial family photoshoot. Carefully styled, posed, and filled with genuine moments. Timeless elegance meets modern edge with soft light and clean backgrounds. You and your family will be the protagonists. Also? Air Conditioning!!

BOOK YOUR STUDIO MINI SESSION

BONITA MINI SESSIONS

Bonita's got it all: easy parking, a rustic equestrian trail, and plenty of room for even the biggest of family crews. The sandy trail acts like a natural reflector, bathing everyone in that soft, creamy glow, easy light means easy photos. Oh, and the pets approve too.

BOOK YOUR BONITA MINI SESSION

ALPINE MINI SESSIONS

I know Alpine is a bit of a drive, but trust me, it's pure magic! With golden shrubs and fall leaves, it feels like a Hallmark movie set. You really can’t go wrong with this spot!

BOOK YOUR ALPINE MINI SESSION

Want the full Melissa Madden experience?

My availability for the rest of 2026 is very limited. If you'd love to experience a full session with me, now’s the time to inquire!

Contact me!

Client Closet & Personalized Outfit Guidance

Outfit stress? Not here. For a $100 add-on, get access to my client closet plus personalized outfit guidance. My closet is stocked with curated gowns and dresses from top brands, and I'll put together a custom outfit board for your family. No shopping, no panic, just show up and get dressed.

✓ Newborn to adult sizing
✓ Maternity gowns & flowy dresses
✓ Kids', men's & boys' pieces
✓ Custom outfit board tailored to your family
✓ Coordinated looks for everyone

Check out the Client Closet here!